The journey of a 1000 miles begins with a single step

Grasping

Uprooting grasping at self

To uproot grasping at self, we need to realize wisdom. To realize wisdom, we need merit. Merit releases us from negative emotions, the cause of samsaric suffering, and loosens our grasping at self. As that happens, we glimpse the true nature of our mind. Once we do, we can meditate on the true nature to perfect the realization of wisdom. Until then, we need to make merit.
– Tulku Thondup Rinpoche
With thanks to Just Dharma Quotes